Moncton Reports Record-Breaking Building Permit Activity in First Quarter of 2025 2025-04-24

The City of Moncton is off to a strong start in 2025, with building permit activity reaching new heights. For the first quarter, ending March 31, a total of 209 permits were issued, representing a combined value of $198.6 million, more than triple the $56.6 million recorded during the same period in 2024.

Institutional and government projects led all sectors in total value, accounting for $120.6 million or 60 per cent of Q1’s permit volume. A standout project is the $112.1-million Phase 2 permit for the Atlantic Science Enterprise Centre at 343 Université Ave., which will include new labs and office space. This follows the $4.4-million permit issued in Q2 2024 for Phase 1, which encompassed excavation, groundwork, and site preparation. Additionally, a $6.4-million renovation of the hospital pharmacy at 330 Université Ave. highlights ongoing investment in essential healthcare services in our community.

Residential development remains a vital part of Moncton’s growth story. The first quarter saw 111 residential permits issued, adding 420 new housing units to the city’s market. This is 2.5 times more than the 164 units added during the same period last year. These developments accounted for $62.6 million in permit value and included two major multi-unit projects: a $17.3-million, 143-unit apartment building at 280 Millennium Blvd. and a $11-million, 77-unit apartment building at 30 Waterloo St.

“Our city continues to demonstrate strong momentum in meeting housing demands while investing in long-term infrastructure,” says Moncton Deputy Mayor Paulette Thériault. “This growth supports our vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable Moncton.”

The commercial and industrial sector also contributed significantly, with 37 permits issued totaling $14.7 million. Notable projects include a $5.6-million cross-dock and office expansion for Manitoulin Transport at 200 Babineau Blvd. and a $1.8-million self-storage warehouse at 15 Loustouk St.

“These results are a clear signal of investor confidence in Moncton,” says Luc Babineau, the City of Moncton’s director of economic development. “The level of public and private investment we’re seeing reflects our city’s strong fundamentals and strategic outlook for growth.”